Basketball
Wayzata Triumphs in Class 4A Championship with Strategic Game Plan
2025-03-23

In a stunning victory, the Wayzata Trojans executed their game plan to perfection, defeating the top-seeded Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders 80-55 in the Class 4A championship match. Coach Bryan Schnettler's team showcased an aggressive style, continuously moving the ball and applying pressure on the larger Raiders squad. The Trojans' defensive efforts were particularly effective against Notre Dame-bound post player Tommy Ahneman, who struggled to find his rhythm throughout the contest. Key players such as Nolen Anderson, Christian Wiggins, Isaac Ohnstad, Tommy Shunmugavelu, and Wyatt McBeth contributed significantly to the team's success.

The Wayzata Trojans entered the championship game with a clear strategy: exploit their agility and quickness to counterbalance the physical advantage of their opponents. From the opening tip-off, they demonstrated exceptional teamwork, constantly running the baseline and finding open players for scoring opportunities. This approach not only kept the Raiders on their toes but also allowed Wayzata to maintain control of the tempo and flow of the game.

A pivotal aspect of the Trojans' success was their relentless defense. Sturdy forwards Tommy Shunmugavelu and Wyatt McBeth played crucial roles in neutralizing Cretin-Derham Hall's dominant presence in the paint. Their efforts ensured that Tommy Ahneman, a formidable post player committed to Notre Dame, remained scoreless for the first 12 minutes of the game. Despite eventually tallying 15 points and eight rebounds, Ahneman never fully regained his usual dominance.

One of the most memorable moments of the game came when Wyatt McBeth delivered a thunderous one-handed dunk over Ahneman, igniting the enthusiastic crowd at Williams Arena. This play symbolized the Trojans' determination and confidence throughout the match. Coach Schnettler praised McBeth and Shunmugavelu for their outstanding performances, noting their ability to hold their own against a physically superior opponent.

The Wayzata Trojans' victory exemplifies the power of strategic planning and execution in high-stakes competitions. By leveraging their strengths and effectively countering their opponents' advantages, the team achieved a remarkable triumph. The players' dedication to executing their coach's vision paid off handsomely, securing their place in the annals of Class 4A basketball history. As the final buzzer sounded, it was evident that this win was more than just a scoreboard achievement; it was a testament to the team's resilience and unity.

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